Joseph Henry Renteria Jr., 42, died on July 2, 2012 as the result of a tragic accident. Born October 25, 1969 in Yakima Washington, Joe and his family moved to Eagle River, AK in 2006. Husband and father Joe enjoyed having family and friends close by and often gathered everyone together for special celebrations.

Joe served 24 years in the US Army. As a medic and as a highly decorated NCO, Joe was a recipient of the Purple Heart, Bronze Medal, 6 Army Accommodation Medals, Paratrooper Combat Medal, and the Medic Badge. Often called "Doc" by those who knew him, he was highly admired and respected by his fellow soldiers. During his military career Joe was deployed six times including; Saudi, Bosnia and Iraq.

An avid outdoorsman; fishing, hunting, archery and shooting were activities he loved and shared with many. Joe was recognized as a mentor and teacher through his involvement in the Wounded Warriors program, Alaska Bow Hunters Association, Cook Inlet Archers and as an instructor for the National Archery Schools Program.

He will be remembered by his family and friends as a kind and good man, one who would always lend an ear, a hand, or just honest advice. His family and country will remember Joe as a hero.

Joe is survived by his wife; Cindy; children, Joshua, Jennifer, Ashley and Matthew; grandson Zach; his father Joe and siblings, Rick, Wanda and Tammy. Joe was preceded in death by his mother Sue.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Community Covenant Church 16123 Artillery Road Eagle River, AK 99577 on the 21st of July starting at noon.

A memorial fund (# 139078) has been set up through Denali Alaska to memorialize Joe and to help with expenses. For more information on how to contribute to this account contact Denali Alaskan at